UNA-USA Human Rights Day Event

On December 10 UNA-USA held the Inaugural Leo Nevas Human Rights Award luncheon, in association with its December Board meeting. This is named in honor of Leo Nevas, 95, the longest serving Board Member of UNA-USA and a champion of human rights around the world. Paul Newman and his Newman's Own Foundation support the effort.

The theme of the meeting was the UN's role in Darfur. Panelists included Sir Brian Urquehart, former UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs; Donald Steinberg, Director of the New York Office of the international Crisis Group; John Prendergast, co-chair of the ENOUGH PRoject; and Ruth Messinger, president of American Jewish World Service. Thomas J. Pickering moderated. Despite the efforts of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and special envoy Jan Eliasson, peace talks have been faltering and humanitarian needs are greater than ever. Aid is estimated at $1 billion a year for the refugees. Minimally 26 helicopters are needed, but no country is willing to supply them. Activism is required by NGOs and others to promote the needed policies and funding.

The Westchester Chapter was well represented, with Phil Reynolds, Molly Bruce and David and Ginger Stillman attending.